James Kennedy dives deep into his story from his early days in Ibiza to balancing life between DJing and filming Vanderpump Rules.
Reality TV is known to be quite a wild ride filled with unforgettable moments, shocking surprises, and lots of juicy drama. There’s something for everyone whether you’re a longtime viewer or just starting, but sometimes, it’s hard to understand a person simply from what’s shown on TV. Vanderpump Rules star James Kennedy has experienced this first-hand as his life has been put under a microscope in the public eye, being labeled and put into boxes he can’t escape.
Through his unrelenting spirit, he’s carried on by showcasing different sides of his personality and passions, like his endeavors as a music producer and world-traveling DJ. James isn’t your typical reality star turned DJ, however, as his journey in music began at 14 years old on the island of Ibiza. Since then, he’s achieved many musical milestones, including signing a residency at the newly-launched LIV Las Vegas, earning a spot at on the Stagecoach lineup, and releasing memorable records.
With 2024 in full effect, James Kennedy has a lot of plans in store for his legion of fans. Looking to gain more insight, he sat down with us to reflect on his career, open up about his struggles with sobriety and the adversity he’s overcome, his origins in music, and so much more. Make sure to snag a ticket to one of his upcoming shows, crank up the volume on his latest releases on Spotify, and read on for the full conversation with James Kennedy!
Your time on Vanderpump Rules has helped you gain a loyal and dedicated fanbase due to your entertaining personality. Even with such a massive following, some people are still discovering that you’re more than a reality TV star and have strong ties to dance music. Can you take us back in time and share more insight on how you began your career in dance music?
It all started when I moved to the island of Ibiza at 14 years old because my dad was doing some business there. I went to a Spanish school and lived a pretty normal life on the beach, but at night, I would sneak out. Some of the first places I went to were Pacha and Space. I first saw Carl Cox and David Guetta perform on the same night, and my life changed forever. I had to know more!
Instantly connecting with the music, I tried to find any techno CD I could get. I worked at the beach during the day, and sometimes, the cooks in the kitchen would leave their CDs. I would take them home to burn copies.
Flash forward to 2008, I moved to the USA, and the dance music scene started to pop off. I started DJing and producing on Ableton, walking the hallways at Beverly Hills High School trying to get everyone to listen to my beats. A few years later, I started bussing tables at SUR, and the rest is history. My biggest dance music inspirations when I was younger were MOBY, David Guetta, Tiësto in his “Traffic” days, and Benny Benassi.
You’re in a unique space where some fans know you for your time on TV, and some know you for your DJ/Producer career. It’s no secret that both worlds are extremely demanding, so how do you balance your time and passion for both?
It’s been the ride of a lifetime filming Vanderpump Rules and working on TV for over a decade. It’s allowed me to connect with people from all around the world. People know my story and have seen me grow through all the ups and downs, so they can relate to me so much. When it comes to the music, specifically house music and EDM, a kick and a clap are like the beat to my heart. It is my passion, and something takes control of me when I hear something new and exciting.
I like to make remixes and mashups, so I’m always keeping my set fresh and up to date in addition to some Ibiza classics into the mix. If you know, you know. Keeping a healthy lifestyle both mentally and physically is very important. I have a routine for when I’m home in LA and on the road. Staying thankful and clear-minded is important to balance everything.
During your career, you’ve faced a lot of hardship, whether it’s people doubting your musical ability or learning to open up about struggling with sobriety. How has being involved in music helped you on your journey with sobriety?
Of course, things can get misunderstood when you’re starring in a reality show and trying to allow people to see your true side. Along the way, people want to confine you to a box. I’m a reality star, so I can’t be anything else. But being an Aquarius, I do not do well in boxes! Jumping hurdles and breaking barriers have always been a part of my life.
I knew filming Vanderpump Rules while trying to become a successful DJ would be challenging. I never doubted myself, though, because I always thought outside of the box. I always had a vision, and I prayed that one day, others would be able to see that vision, too. I’m not saying I’ve completed the mission, but I’m certainly on my way! I love seeing the fans at my shows, and I always take extra time to meet them, take photos, and thank them. The fans make it all possible.
We’re happy about your progress and for everything that’s coming. Speaking about the future, you have exciting things planned, like a residency at LIV Las Vegas and a North American tour. What can your fans expect when they see you at your upcoming shows?
The LIV Las Vegas residency is an absolute dream come true. I visited Vegas with my family when I was young, so seeing the billboards with my face and name on them blows my mind every time. The residency lit a fire in me, and I want to make sure every show is the best, with high energy and absolute bangers. I’m always excited for people to see me play because it’s a different experience. I need to keep the show’s integrity, so I’m trying to perform better every single time, no matter how tired I am. I’ll sleep when I’m dead!
Since you’re going on tour, it’s safe to assume that lots of new music is coming soon. What can your fans expect on the release front as we head into the rest of 2024 and beyond?
I’ve been working on music production so much, and I’m excited to share what I’ve been making. I always ask myself, “What would I want to hear on a main stage at a crazy festival somewhere?” Fans can expect some high-energy bass since I’ve always been a fan of catchy vocals and hitting fans with a hard drop. My UK roots come out when I’m working on vocals. I hope the fans will love the music as much as I do.
Now that you’ve established that you’re serious about your musical career, what other professional achievements would you like to accomplish in the music industry?
That’s a good question. I believe in living in the moment and being present for all the good things happening. The answer to what I want to accomplish is anything and everything. I want to connect with DJs from all around the world. Not necessarily famous DJs but people with the same passion for growing the EDM community.
I want to release some great tracks and work with established producers and vocalists, but I also have some big plans with television. My mom always said she could see me in movies one day, so maybe you’ll catch me at the theaters! Dreams can become a reality if you want them bad enough, so reach for the stars! There is no other way.
To end positively, do you have any words of encouragement for fans who may have shared a similar journey to yours, whether in music or day-to-day life?
Of course I do. The power within you is infinite. Hours and hours of practice must go in for years, but it doesn’t come hard when the passion is real. It’s the most fun thing ever when you’re passionate. When you’re making music and enjoying it, time flies faster than the speed of light.
Stay true to yourself, and don’t listen to what others think. There will be haters along the way because they envy whatever you are doing. Most importantly, never give up. When I was 14, standing there at PACHA Ibiza, I never thought that I would be flying around the world, playing shows, and seeing the crowd from the stage – now I am!
Everything is already within you. Spread love and play music. That’s what it’s all about. Thanks for having me. I enjoyed this interview.
